Ricardo Campground

Closed — The campground and visitor center are closed until further notice due to Abbott Drive closure from flood damage. Abbott Drive was closed proactively due to concerns about expected water flows in Red Rock Wash causing further road damage.

About

Ricardo Campground is located in Red Rock Canyon State Park, where the southernmost tip of the Sierra Nevada converges with the El Paso Range. The campground features 50 primitive sites nestled against dramatic desert cliffs, offering varied terrain from walk-in sites surrounded by Joshua trees to sites with cave-like chambers at the cliff base. The park showcases spectacular rock formations, vivid colors, and scenic desert buttes that have served as a backdrop for numerous films. The area was historically home to the Kawaiisu Indians and later served as a landmark for 20-mule team freight wagons in the 1870s. After wet winters, the park's floral displays are stunning. Wildlife includes roadrunners, hawks, lizards, mice, and squirrels. Miles of trails meander through the dramatic landscape, and the park allows OHVs on primitive roads. The visitor center offers firewood for purchase and is open Friday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except during July and August.

Directions

From Mojave, travel 25 miles northeast on Highway 14. Turn west onto Abbott Drive for 1/4 mile to the visitor center and campground. The park is 120 miles north of Los Angeles via Interstate 5 and Highway 14.

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